The Spanish Fleet Commander, Admiral Santiago Bolibar has assumed command of the European Maritime Force (EUROMARFOR) relieving the French Vice-admiral Philippe Coindreau.

The ceremony took place on board the LHD "Juan Carlos I" in Rota Naval Base and was presided over by the Chief of Naval Staff Admiral General Jaime Munoz-Delgado.

EUROMARFOR is a non-standing naval force shaped and sized depending on the mission assigned and the logistic support required. It can operate as an independent task force or integrated into other forces.

Since its activation in 1995 by Spain, France, Portugal and Italy, EUROMARFOR has participated in many international operations and exercises, among them the UN Peace-Keeping operation in the Lebanon (UNIFIL) and operation "Atalanta" fighting against piracy in the Indian Ocean.